Injuries are already casting a shadow over the New York Yankees’ spring training camp, leaving fans frustrated and concerned as the 2025 season approaches. While the sky isn’t falling, the growing list of sidelined players—headlined by **Giancarlo Stanton**—has become a sore subject in the Bronx.
### **Giancarlo Stanton’s Uncertain Timeline**
Stanton’s situation remains the most troubling. Beyond undergoing tests for an elbow issue in New York, the slugger is also dealing with an unexpected personal matter, as revealed by manager **Aaron Boone** earlier this week. Boone provided little clarity on Stanton’s return, stating, “I don’t [know when he’ll rejoin the team]. Hopefully soon.”
For now, Stanton has no timetable to resume baseball activities, let alone return to the lineup. His absence leaves a massive hole in the Yankees’ offense, as Stanton remains one of the team’s most feared hitters. The Yankees will need to find a way to compensate for his production until he’s ready to play.
### **Scott Effross’ Hamstring Strain**
Reliever **Scott Effross** added to the injury woes after throwing just one pitch in a spring training game against the Twins on Tuesday. He exited with a **Grade 2 hamstring strain**, which Boone confirmed will require significant recovery time. “It’s going to take some time,” Boone said, ruling Effross out for Opening Day.
Effross’ injury is particularly disheartening given his limited availability over the past two seasons. Since the start of 2023, he’s pitched just **3 1/3 innings**, and this latest setback further complicates his comeback.
### **Jake Cousins’ Positive Progress**
On a brighter note, right-handed reliever **Jake Cousins** is making strides in his recovery from a forearm strain. Cousins, who emerged as a bullpen savior in 2024, is set to begin a throwing program on Monday. His return would be a significant boost for the Yankees’ bullpen, especially given the dominance of his slider, which held opponents to a **.141 batting average** and **.272 slugging percentage** last season.
### **Jorbit Vivas’ Shoulder Soreness**
Top prospect **Jorbit Vivas**, acquired in a trade with the Dodgers last year, has been sidelined with shoulder soreness. Boone mentioned that Vivas is “getting close to playing again,” but no specific timeline was provided. The versatile infielder, once seen as a potential successor to **Gleyber Torres**, struggled with injuries and performance in 2024.
With spring training games underway, Vivas is running out of time to make an impression and solidify his role in the Yankees’ infield depth chart.
### **What’s Next for the Yankees?**
As injuries pile up, the Yankees face mounting pressure to navigate these setbacks while preparing for the regular season. Stanton’s absence looms largest, but the bullpen and infield depth are also areas of concern. With Opening Day approaching, the Yankees must find ways to stay competitive despite these early challenges.
For now, Yankees fans can only hope for swift recoveries and a healthier roster as the team aims to contend in 2025.
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